DESTINATION

Lafayette

Agriculture and cattle raising were the key occupations around Vermilionville, as the town was first called. During the 1850s highly organized rustlers caused the ranchers to band together into an army of 4,000 vigilantes that drove the rustlers out.

The Civil War and yellow fever hindered Vermilionville's growth, but in 1881 prosperity rode into town on an iron horse when the railroad was extended from New Orleans to Houston. Three years later the town changed its name to honor Marquis de Lafayette, a French general who served in the Continental army during the American Revolution.

Like many southern Louisiana towns, Lafayette was transformed by the discovery of offshore oil. Presently it is the center of the Gulf oil and gas industry; many company offices are housed in the Heymann Oil Center. The town also is the home of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

The Live Oak Society has its headquarters in Lafayette. This group was organized to preserve the live oak, an evergreen shade tree. Membership is limited to live oaks at least 100 years old. Annual membership dues were once 25 acorns. One of the society's venerable members stands in front of St. John's Cathedral, 915 St. John St.; it is more than 450 years old.

A scenic stretch of US 90 begins in Lafayette at the I-10 junction and runs 140 miles east to Paradis. Another year-round attraction is Acadiana Park Nature Station, 1205 E. Alexander St., where about 7 miles of hiking trails wind through woodland.

Several major annual events offer an excuse to celebrate. Lafayette Mardi Gras is said to be the state's second largest such celebration. Festival International de Louisiane , a francophone event held for 5 days in late April, honors the diversity of cultures through music, food, dance, theater, storytelling and arts and crafts. In October Festival Acadiens et Créoles showcases Cajun culture with crafts, food and music. From early to mid-December Noel Acadien Au Village takes place at Larc's Acadian Village and includes lights, parades and live entertainment among its seasonal offerings.